As the Australian summer kicks into full gear, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a refreshing cocktail. Inspired by my time in Queenstown, New Zealand, and infused with the vibrant flavors of watermelon, I’ve created a twist on two classic cocktails: the Southside and the Margarita.
This watermelon-based cocktail is perfect for sunny days, offering the ideal balance of minty freshness, citrus zing, and smooth gin. With the hot summer days in Australia and watermelon in full season, this cocktail is a great way to cool off while enjoying something a little different. Let’s dive into the inspiration behind it, the recipe, and some tips for the perfect watermelon cocktail!
The Cocktail Inspiration
A Southside Influence:
The Southside is a classic cocktail known for its refreshing minty flavor. It’s a simple yet elegant drink made with gin, mint, lime, and a little sugar. What makes it so special is how the mint mingles with the gin, creating a bright, aromatic flavor. I wanted to take this simple and refreshing drink and give it a summer twist, perfect for the Australian heat.
A Margarita Twist:
The Margarita is an iconic cocktail, beloved worldwide for its perfect balance of tangy lime and the sweet, bitter flavor of orange liqueur like Cointreau. The addition of Cointreau to my watermelon cocktail helps to balance the sharpness of the lime and the herbal notes from the gin, creating a harmonious and refreshing flavor profile.
Adjusting for Australian Summer:
Watermelon is the perfect fruit for summer in Australia. It’s sweet, hydrating, and has the ideal refreshing quality needed for hot days. Instead of using dried blueberries (a key ingredient in the original Southside), I swapped them out for fresh watermelon to give the cocktail a juicier, sweeter twist, all while using ingredients that are in season. The result is a beautifully refreshing, fruity take on a classic that’s perfect for warm weather.
Watermelon Smash Cocktail Recipe
This recipe combines fresh, seasonal ingredients with a perfect balance of gin, Cointreau, and lime. Here’s how you can make it at home!
Ingredients:
- 30ml Gin (preferably a floral or citrus-forward gin)
- 30ml Cointreau (orange liqueur)
- 15ml Sugar Syrup
- 30ml Fresh Lime Juice
- 8 Mint Leaves (fresh)
- 4 Pieces of Fresh Watermelon
Method:
- Muddle the mint leaves and watermelon pieces in a cocktail shaker. This releases the fresh mint oils and juicy watermelon, which will infuse the drink with great flavor.
- Add the gin, Cointreau, sugar syrup, and fresh lime juice to the shaker.
- Shake vigorously to combine the ingredients and chill the mixture.
- Double strain the cocktail into a glass filled with ice to ensure the drink is smooth and without any bits of mint or watermelon.
- Optional Garnish: Garnish with a sprig of mint or a few small cubes of watermelon for extra flair.
Tips for the Perfect Watermelon Smash:
- Fresh Watermelon: Be sure to use ripe, juicy watermelon for the best flavor. The fruit should be sweet and fragrant, as it adds a natural sweetness to the cocktail that complements the tart lime.
- Gin Choice: While any gin can work, I recommend a floral or citrus-forward gin to really bring out the refreshing aspects of the mint and lime.
- Adjusting the Sweetness: If you like your drinks a little sweeter, you can increase the amount of sugar syrup to taste. I find that 15ml gives the perfect balance with the watermelon’s natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Glassware: This cocktail can be served in a coupe glass or rocks glass, depending on your preference. I recommend using a coupe glass for a more elegant presentation.
- Garnish: A simple garnish of mint leaves or watermelon cubes makes for a stunning visual touch and reinforces the refreshing theme of the cocktail.
- Perfect for: This cocktail is ideal for summer parties, BBQs, or even a laid-back afternoon on the patio. Its fruity, fresh flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Closing Thoughts:
The Watermelon Twist is the ultimate refreshing summer cocktail that blends the best elements of the Southside and Margarita, with a juicy watermelon twist to keep things interesting. It’s easy to make, beautifully refreshing, and the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the season. Whether you’re sipping it at a summer BBQ or enjoying it on a lazy afternoon, this drink will keep you cool and satisfied all season long.
Give this recipe a try and feel free to experiment with other fruits and herbs to make it your own. Enjoy the sunny days with a refreshing drink in hand!
Liquid - Atlas 
Leave a comment